How do you make gel ice packs in five steps?

Make a gel ice pack by mixing water and rubbing alcohol in a two-to-one ratio in a plastic freezer bag and freeze. Combining the ingredients takes five minutes, but it takes four hours or longer to fully freeze. These are better than traditional ice packs because they take longer to melt.

1. Gather the materials

   You will need a quart sized plastic freezer bag, 70 percent rubbing alcohol, water and a measuring cup. Use two plastic bags to ensure no leakage.

2. Measure the water

   Measure out two cups of water, and pour into the freezer bag.

3. Measure the rubbing alcohol

   Measure out one cup of 70 percent rubbing alcohol, and pour into the same freezer bag.

4. Mix the contents

   Hold the bag upright on a flat surface, squeeze out any excess air and seal it. Hold the bag in both of your hands, and shake it to ensure the ingredients have mixed properly.

5. Freeze the bag

   Place the bag flat on its side in the freezer for a minimum of four hours. Remove any remaining excess air by opening the bag and rolling the frozen mix around, then squeezing the air out again. Place back in the freezer until the gel ice pack is needed.